Ender Magazine 2022: Vol.48 No. 6

TheCrusader

Editorial Board

Melvin P. Villacote Editor in Chief

Reina Margaret Gwynette T. Villamor Associate Editor

Jean Mika M. Aporillo Design Editor

Rafhael L. Jabongga Managing Editor

Danica Ela P. Armendarez News Editor

Claire Ivy T. Vanguardia Campus Features Editor

Alyssa Chantal P. Moreno Local Features Editor

Levina Eunice O. Palarca National Features Editor

Kenneth Wallace G. Melendez Broadcast News Director

James Patrick B. Pabonita Photography Editor

Sheil Ann Ashley P. Bruas Graphic Design & Layout Editor

Jayson Elvie G. Ty Freehand Editor

Karl Mykell M. Tabbay Video Productions Director

Managers

Edshera Mae R. Abella Human Resource Manager

Kevin Matthew N. Pacana Office Manager

Aira May L. Plaga Circulations Manager

Jivi Roy D. Rizaldo Online Accounts Manager

Paula Elaine D. Francisco Senior Research Manager

Catherine C. Naldoza Senior Computer Systems Manager

Reyjean Marie S. Bacud Senior Finance Manager

Sumayyah G. Caris Internal Auditor

Staff Writers

Racquel Vaneza Kate B. Agustin (Trainee)

Regina Noelle C. Arquiza (Trainee)

Fritz F. Bustamante

Andre’ Socorro F. Doria

Abdel Rafi M. Lim

Rustum Louiegie P. Duranm Jr. (Trainee)

Hyacinth L. Premacio (Trainee)

Nia Enrille R. Rabanes

Staff Artists

Derrick Kean A. Auxtero

John Ian G. Bradshaw

Zenju P. Espinosa

Chloe Alexandra T. Orteza (Trainee)

Kiarra Dlahmane P. Lingating

Shaun Arthur O. Pao

Kenneth Jhon D. Sanchez

Staff Broadcasters

Angelyne I. Bonani

Christian A. La Victoria (Trainee)

Aliyah Francine G. Salan (Trainee)

Andrea Marie Tan (Trainee)

Kyla Gabrielle P. Tuto (Trainee)

Moderator

Mr. Raymond A. Ybañez

University

Cover Story

Table of Contents

istory begs to repeat itself as the dark days of media under the Martial Law slowly resurface. In the depths of the sea of disinformation and with the truth barely staying afloat, we now fight our greatest battle yet. More than ever, we must fixate ourselves on what is true and tighten our grip on what is right.C

Words by Fritz F. Bustamante

Design by Kevin Matthew N. Pacana & Shaun Arthur O. Pao

Publishers

Falling for the biased

egardless of motivation, murder is unjustifiable no matter the delusion driven by one’s own political stance. In recent events, the unsettling Ateneo shooting had disturbed Filpinos and traumatized the people who were in the venue of the incident. Yet, the tones of many social media narratives lean more towards sympathizing for the murderer instead of being disapproving and critical. Despite his condemning actions, people who share the same political stance with the murderer were quick to side with him, justifying his actions by reasons sullied with harmful beliefs and perpetuated by disinformation.

Chao Tiao Yumol had killed three innocent people that day; former Lamitan City Mayor Rose Furigay and her aide Victor George Capistrano, and Ateneo security guard Jeneven Bandiala. To suddenly barge in an event meant for celebration and kill three people for one’s own selfish agenda is a horrific act in itself. Yet, according to Rappler, 56.6 percent of over 2,300 Facebook posts and 45.4 percent of 250 Youtube videos that mentioned Yumol sympathized with him and were supportive of his actions. It seems like there are people who would rather sympathize with Yumol and justify his actions than admit that a fellow BBM supporter is a vile murderer.

Many social media posts called Yumol a “hero” because apparently, he had fought an injustice. He was a mere victim pressured by the injustices of those in power—compelled to kill the person whom he believed was a corrupt official involved in the illegal drug trade. It even went as far as blaming the victims

of the shooting, claiming “they deserved it” even when evidence against Yumol’s accusations proved him wrong. This is the story they were made to believe to make it seem like the gunman was not at fault. People failed to be more critical of a situation in favor of elevating a narrative they want to believe.

In reality, no matter the reason for Yumol’s actions, taking matters into his own hands was not the solution to end the injustices of corruption. These were the actions of a reckless, merciless, and unstable man who had destroyed the lives of the families of the people he killed. Just as worse as his actions are the false narratives spread throughout social media that had many believe that the murder was borne from the calculated decision of a “hero”. What many don’t realize is that stories like this are politically driven. Facts are manipulated and twisted to the advantage of one party involved. This subtle, yet detrimental manipulation of information has gone too far as people continue to twist stories of real horror in desperation to keep their political stance and the image of who they support pristine.

Murder should not be glorified in any situation. But because we have encased ourselves in a box of beliefs fed by our Facebook timelines and favorite Youtube channels, we were blinded from seeing a shooting incident as it is—dreadful and disturbing. Even when the murderer in the news has the same political beliefs as we do, we must learn to look at the situation objectively, scrutinize information, and confirm the facts before coming to a conclusion that will cost us our morality.C

Information at stake

By Rafhael L. Jabongga

e live in an era where information circulates around the world in real-time. This gives people access to facts with just the click of a button. However, rather than being informed, there is an increasing number of cases of disinformation.

W

One can say that this is caused by a lack of comprehension for these targeted individuals. But a closer look at this phenomenon will tell you that it is a lack of critical assessment of the truth. In actuality, even with accessible information, many people have trouble distinguishing what is true and what is not. With this comes the role of journalism as it rights false information, puts down misleading propaganda, and refutes other black tactics.

With the recent order on Rappler’s shutdown, some Filipinos rejoice because to them, it is branded as a ‘biased’ news site that is far from the facts. It is disheartening to read articles containing distorted information spreading around the internet that slanders Rappler as a credible news outlet. In an article published by the New York Times, with the increasing number of internet users recently

Grow as we go

By Reina Margaret Gwynette T. Villamor

s the eldest sibling, the burden of the role model is placed on our shoulders—leaving little room for imperfections. We knew the chores to be done, problems to be addressed, and gaps to be filled. We set an example by being the perfect child, sibling, and student all at once. In time, that little room harbors all our growing pains.

One of these pains is realizing our parents aren’t all-knowing and perfect. Rather, they’re people just like us. They have goals, feelings, and lives lived. The challenge lies in reconciling with the fact that they may be people we love but do not necessarily like. May it be because of a difference in political opinion or a deep relational disconnect, there is pain in realizing our parents cannot understand us in the way we want them to. So, how do we outgrow a hurtful environment when it’s our own homes?

The easy answer would be to leave. But Filipino culture doesn’t allow us to walk away, nor does it place premiums on healthy conversations. So we stay, sweep our feelings under the rug, and

spreading false claims about Rappler’s reputation as the least trusted news organization, Rappler CEO Maria Ressa has had to increase security, especially online. The news media in the country is facing so much pressure and the freedom of the press is at stake. However, these allegations are not new in the media industry in the Philippines. As Rappler faced its tough challenge in Philippine news media, I certainly agree that they have the right to defend themselves, to defend the press freedom in the country by constantly bringing credible sources of information to the Filipinos.

It is a major challenge, then, for professionals and young journalists to fight for the truth in this pressing time. Thus, it is high time that we citizens should think, move, and raise our voices to make a difference in the fight against misleading propaganda—especially online. To aspiring and young journalists, our defiance is to create a ripple of change by relinquishing truthful, factual, and relevant information day by day.C

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It is a major challenge, then, for professionals and young journalists to fight for the truth in this pressing time.

pretend everything is fine. After all, how can we be “hurt” if we were provided food, housing, and every other basic human need?

Thus, the biggest burden an eldest sibling bears is being the bigger person. To keep the peace, we have to sacrifice our own, just until things get better. We have to respect them through polite disengagement—be civil, take their words with a grain of salt, and overall keep our cool. We recognize that it is too draining to keep fighting when we share a home. More than that, we learn to reconcile with the fact that our parents can only love us in the ways they know how to, even if these ways hurt us.

But we also hope—that as we face our growing pains—we grow as we go.C

To keep the peace, we have to sacrifice our own, just until things get better.

#LabanLang

Dionysus

Outside the selected few

By Melvin P. Villacote

Poverty is not a hindrance to success”— though a phrase often meant to encourage and empower people, it is a bit lacking in nuance and sensitivity and, to a certain extent, a bit tone deaf. More than once in our lives, we’ve heard of the executive chairman who started dirt poor, the famous entrepreneur who worked multiple jobs to go to college, or the billionaire that was self-made. Understandably, people look at these narratives as the role model of success and a resource for comparison. These culminate to often heard exclamations like, “Just work harder,” as sentiment about overcoming struggles or “Kana gani siya pobre mana siya sauna, nakaya man lagi?” with regards to achieving success. Though often said with good intentions, these thoughts ignore context and caveats that should be taken into account.

So what then? Why are we criticizing a seemingly inspirational narrative as one of insensitivity? Perhaps the answer lies in looking at it from a different perspective. Instead of simply elevating and ogling at these stories of success as a source of motivation and comparison, ask the

It’s not funny

By Jayson Elvie G. Ty

Earlier this month, a performance orchestrated by the student athletes of De La Salle University (DLSU) during their prep rally while crossdressing, dancing, and acting silly grew traction on social media. People expressed their disappointment towards the distasteful act. A local university’s department had its own asininity. In a since-deleted post, the School of Business and Management of Liceo de Cagayan University (LDCU) initiated a Mr. Gay competition that had cis-straight men compete as they act effeminate for entertainment.

Although both received backlash from the city’s queer community, I’ve seen posts from people defending the event because these acts, as they say, are “for fun lang” and that they don’t intend to disrespect the LGBTQ+ community “kay this type of contest is uso man jud every fiesta sa barangay”. It feels like an insult that they dress up in their opposite sex for amusement when queer people get anxious expressing their identity. Moreso, it’s an insult that many people go out of their way to defend such acts. It’s funny how people make an excuse for the systemic attempt of

whys. Why is it that only a select few poor people become successful? Why are some hard-working people still stuck without progress?

Despite what we would like to think, numerous other factors are at play and the poor may fall short of some of them. Opportunities, connections, and education among others are one of the few things that the poor are not privileged to have much, which only serves as an added obstacle on the road to success. Furthermore, there is little help offered to the less, and even if there was, not everyone is privy about how to avail of these services. Ignoring the weight of these factors is tone deaf to the reality of being poor. Poverty can be a hindrance to success and only through recognizing this obstacle can it be addressed properly. Consider this, step outside the stories of the select few. C

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Poverty can be a hindrance to success and only through recognizing this obstacle can it be addressed properly?

the heteronormative society to view queerness as a laughingstock.

As a drag queen, I get catcalled on the streets as I go out in drag, and it doesn’t feel good knowing that transgender women get harassed just because they dress up as themselves. Yes, the Philippines still has a long way to go in relation to inclusivity and diversity, but this the purpose of the SOGIE bill—to defend the LGBTQ+ community from harassment and discrimination based on gender expression. It acts as a safeguard when queers are, among other things, discriminated in a way of being barred from entering establishments for dressing “inappropriately.”

Come on, it’s exhausting to keep on educating people regarding these things. It is high time for society to realize that these “fun” events are designed to offend and discriminate. And really, none of it was ever funny to begin with.C

‘‘

It’s funny how people make an excuse for the systemic attempt of the heteronormative society to view queerness as a laughingstock.

ecades have passed since the dark days of Martial Law under the Ferdinand Marcos

Dadministration. Gone is the past, but what especially remains is the ache of the freedom that was once tampered with—the freedom of the press. Truth was held in chains and

faced its greatest despondency.

Sr.

journalism

COVER STORY

By Fritz F. Bustamante & Andre’ Socorro F. Doria

Read the full online version of this issue at bit.ly/AYEnder2022 or at www.thecrusaderpublication.ph

The present does not seem to hold that much promise either. A familiar name now returns in power and, quite possibly, brings with it a familiar trail of events. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. now walks in as the 17th President of the Philippines. The ring of the Marcos name recalls those dark days, and we begin to fear for the freedom of the press that we’ve tried so hard to protect.

A trip back to the dark days

Journalists had to walk on eggshells during one of the darkest times of press freedom in the country. The mouth that spoke—or wanted to speak—the truth was clammed up by the dictator who wanted his name to stay pristine: 10th President of the Philippines Marcos Sr. All efforts to arm the military with the strength and power, perhaps so no one would disobey the government, was all but blatant. These efforts spanned from the shutdown and takeover of private media outlets, arrests and torture of journalists and media owners, to seizing complete control over the media and establishing blanket censorship and regulation, ensuring that information is simmered down to nothing but a blind appreciation for the government and its leader. No one would expect press freedom to flourish in such conditions. It was a strategic plot that stemmed from evoking fear in those who knew and wanted to shout the truth, a job every journalist is responsible for.

The battle continues

The Philippines has since moved towards an arguably brighter path as far as press freedom is concerned, at least, when compared to those dark days. That said, the question of whether or not press freedom is still alive in this country is up in the air. With a dwindling World Press Freedom Index, now positioning itself at 141 out of 180 countries for 2022 as evidenced by quite the tumultuous trail of events over the recent years, the Philippines is still far from winning its battle for press freedom.

One of the boldest actions taken as a way to pose a threat to journalists is the shutdown of one of the biggest media outlets, ABS-CBN, whose first shutdown also took place under the Martial Law. We’ve since seen more of these attacks, like the blocking of an alternative media website page Bulatlat, and now the looming shutdown of Nobel Peace Prize Awardee Maria Ressa’s Rappler, Inc. This is the present reality of journalism and press freedom in the country and sadly, it seems as though we are marching towards the decline of press freedom. Now with our greatest battle yet against the immensely thriving misinformation and disinformation, our grip on the truth wanes even more.

New throne, new sitting arrangements

With the transition of a new leadership comes new seats to fill as some are unseated. There is now an evident juxtaposition between the old view of “less is more” and the current reality that sheer numbers can overcome the intrinsic value of the noble less. The role of the press was conveniently

questioned, ignored and discredited during the campaign period, as observed by Political Journalist Christian Esguerra and Rappler Senior Reporter Pia Ranada. And the game of numbers became evermore clear, at the expense of the Fourth estate’s watchdogs and the sacred trust placed upon their guard.

Alternately, vloggers and influencers began to sit on special access, velvet-cushioned, gold-laced seats in front. It was not long when Press Secretary Atty. Trixie Cruz-Angeles, a lawyer-vlogger herself, proclaimed that the accreditation of vloggers will be a priority measure. Members of the journalism academe and the press, nevertheless, received the news with a grain of salt as editorial and ethical standards were raised.

were doing their supposed job were pushed to the back, if not to the edges.

However, the subtle difference observed at present is that trust ratings became the consequential expense. Certain brands of the Philippine media industry slid in rankings and independent outlets were “actively distrusted by supporters of the politicians in question,” Vera Files Co-Founder Yvonne T. Chua described in a Reuters Institute Digital News Report. It is one of the wary signs prevailing in Asia’s oldest democracy.

Gallardo stressed that, moving forward, mainstream media will redefine itself without sacrificing its credibility, pointing out that media outfits will keep up with new methods of reaching the masses as deemed necessary.

“We will still be vetting our stories… [sic] Hindi matatalo ang mainstream because we are on the truth’s side,” he emphasized.

At the end of the aisle

“Journalism is not meant to make the government look good or look bad at all… [sic] it’s not working against the government, but it’s also not working for the government. It’s working with the government,” said XU Development Communication Department Chairperson Rechelle Ann Tolinero-Barraquias who has actively worked towards media and information literacy campaigns in the region.

More than a challenge among the members of the press, the looming projection of fear and disinformation affects all of civil society. With Marcos Jr.’s large mandate, henceforth, comes a much larger mandate of the people to remain in truth.

At the end of the aisle must, therefore, be the very trait that every audience and consumer must buy into in a disinformation-plagued democracy— to be more critical of information from all sides.

Rechelle Ann Tolinero-Barraquias Department Chairperson XU Development Communications Department

In his 33 years of practice, Veteran Journalist Froilan Gallardo noted that, “The public eagerly accepted them (vloggers) as the gospel of truth compared to the mainstream media… [sic] The public eagerly assigned them as hook, line and sinker.”

Given the constricting experience in the campaigns, stirring questions on where the press sits in this administration were put forward as Gallardo realized, “It seems that for the first time in the history ng Pilipinas, mainstream media is relegated to the backburner (and) backside.” It begged to recall a historical precedent during late dictator Marcos Sr.’s reign when journalists who

Barraquias suggests that in order to help keep press freedom, journalists, and media organizations afloat, as consumers, we should also practice the skills of being critical with the information that they provide, not because of a familiar namesake in power or constricting duty to do so, but because it is an apt order of thought and action among ordinary Filipino citizens amid high stakes for the truth of both our nation’s past and future. ***

The future bears uncertainty, especially amidst the lies veiled in the guise of truth. Flowing against the streams of misinformation and disinformation, our battle for the truth is still a long one, but it continues no matter who sits in power. The call to be critical about the myriad of information we’re constantly exposed to now intensifies, and each of us hold a responsibility for the truth. In a future that seems to hold darkness, we cast our light and seek for what’s true and what’s right. Only then can we protect the future that will hold promise for our nation. C

Journalism is not meant to make the government look good or look bad at all… [sic] it’s not working against the government, but it’s also not working for the government. It’s working with the government.

Page Design by Sheil Ann Ashley P. Bruas

By Nia Enrille R. Rabanes

It’s about time we call it for what it is: manipulation. The longer people dismiss and deny the malicious intent that founded the campaign of Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., the harder it is for such tactics to be eliminated. At this point, accountability is not only expected from those who have strategically generated content with fake information, not just from thousands of paid trolls, nor from the authorities that fund these operations—but to each and every Filipino who surrendered their ability to think critically and succumbed to the fabricated world that was fed to them.

Facebook as the garden bed for seeds of propaganda

A few years after Facebook gave Filipino users access to the Free Basics App in 2015, the number of Filipinos logged in on the platform reached up to 97 percent of the country’s total internet users, which meant that so many users had Facebook as their source of news; a phenomenon maximized by Marcos’ troops to achieve their plan of changing their family’s history in motion.

One early account of activity that operated to feed the audience with incorrect information was Pinoy Rap Radio’s post in May 2014. The post presented the idea that Ferdinand Marcos Sr. didn’t steal billions from Filipinos, and that every corruption case against Imelda Marcos had been cleared. Both of these claims are proven incorrect as the Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG) to this day, continues to retrieve the money the Marcoses have stolen. And among numerous cases against Imelda Marcos, several of them have concluded with her being guilty.

According to Rappler writer Gemma Mendoza, this post acquired more than 331,000 shares, 38,000 comments, and 369,000 reactions before Rappler corrected its claims in its Fact Check segment in November 2018.

And from then on began the surge of multiple dubious pages actively spreading disinformation.

Trolls as pioneers

When then-Davao mayor Rodrigo Duterte first announced his candidacy for the presidential position, he didn’t stand much of a chance against established politicians Grace Poe and Mar Roxas. This changed when the troll farms set up by Duterte’s social media director, Nic Gabunda, started to show results. After a series of flooding the platform with fake news and pro-Duterte sentiments, as well as spam liking and sharing, by April of 2016, Duterte had dominated the political conversations on social media. One reason why this strategy has garnered enough attention from unsuspecting citizens is the overwhelming number of engagements in said posts creating “an artificial sense of popularity, momentum or relevance,” as described by the University of Oxford researchers Samantha Bradshaw and Philip Howard.

This tactic had not faltered even during Duterte’s term as president. A study by University of the Philippines (UP) Assistant Professor Karl Hapal noted how social media has “become a trollinfested cesspool where users threaten or endanger others with dissenting opinions [...] Moreover, it has served to justify the bloody war on drugs.”

In 2020, during multiple spikes in the number of positive cases, a wave of Twitter users expressing support for Duterte’s COVID-19 response were suspended after they were observed to have violated manipulation and spam policies. Posting “duplicate” content across multiple accounts, creating multiple accounts, and sending large numbers of unsolicited replies or mentions were the bases for their suspension

Lawfare authors Mihm, Oulamine, and Singer state, “As it currently stands, the lines among paid trolling, unpaid trolling, and grassroots support are unclear.”

Disinformation scheme, tried and true

Many studies point out how, like Dutere, Marcos Jr.’s gain of favor among Filipinos is a result of networked propaganda. For the 2022 elections in particular, The Digital Public Pulse (DPP) finds

that this time around, “there are many obscure, suspended, or removed accounts on social media that have largely contributed to partisan election discourse.”

UP Communication Research Assistant Professor Fatima Gaw says that disinformation “is really priming the audience to rationalize [the Marcos] lies and distortions.”

Imelda Marcos first hinted at wanting to return to Malacañang on her birthday in 2014, and after a few years, her desire took form in Marcos Jr.’s win in the 2022 presidential elections.

***

The plot for the Marcoses’ return to power has been in the works way before Marcos Jr. expressed interest in the position, and with the machinery that’s already instilled in Facebook and other social media platforms—the people have already been conditioned to turn a blind eye to the devastation the Marcos clan has placed upon the country; the billions of money they have stolen from public funds, the working Filipino people and their families whose living conditions have utterly worsened, and the countless lives they’ve taken in the name of grandeur or of merely wielding power.

With all that said, what does it say about us if we go on continuing to believe that Marcos Jr.’s win was free of any pretense? C

Sources: rappler.com/newsbreak/investigative/245402 cnnphilippines.com/news/2022/3/24 bloomberg.com/news/features/2017-12-07/ demtech.oii.ox.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/ rappler.com/technology/features/philippine-troll-armiescoda-story/ technology.inquirer.net/98139 www.rappler.com/nation/62215

by Derrick Kean A. Auxtero

resident Rodrigo Roa Duterte is the 16th incumbent president of the Philippines. He has built a reputation for himself by making big promises and proclaiming his outright hatred for criminality in general. With over a month after his term, let us take a look at what his administration has accomplished, and the promises that he swore he would realize when elected as president versus what he actually did.

Expectation: A country changed

To the Filipinos, Duterte’s win in 2016 was the change they had been waiting for. A relatively unknown Mindanaon mayor from Davao City running for the highest position in the country gave people hope—hope for a leader that understands the plight of the masses, who then will be able to raise them up from poverty.

Duterte, being the only president to hail from Mindanao, sparked intrigue from all across the Philippines. People were awed by the declarations he made during his campaign. From riding a boat holding the Philippine flag and planting it on the West Philippine Sea to signify that it is the country’s territory, to eradicating drugs in under six months after being elected, and moreover, swearing to step down if he fails to deliver so. This also includes his bold promises on ending Labor Contractualization or also known as “Endo,” and ending corruption and insurgency in the country.

Reality: Violent and stagnant

Walking the talk is a different matter altogether. His once colorful promises blended into a violent shade of red, marking the heavy consequences that his proclamations entailed.

Duterte’s fearless promise of eradicating drugs in under six months upon his inauguration was highly anticipated. However, his loathe for drugs translated into a bloody drug war, to the chagrin of various human rights groups. A total of 311,686 people were arrested and 6,201 people lost their lives to his crusade—a crusade that was not even successful. His promise to eradicate drugs under the expected time extended to another six months, and even until the last few months of his term, the issue still ran rampant, and the injustices behind his campaign against it were just swept under the rug.

On the subject of Labor contractualization, Endo denies workers a pathway to permanent employment via five-month contracts. Despite claiming that this problem will be one that he will prioritize, Duterte has gone back on his word when he vetoed the security of tenure bill, saying it destroys the “healthy balance” between the conflicting interests of laborers and employers. This, in turn, has made workers feel as if they were betrayed after the extravagant vow.

Meanwhile, on the subject of territory, built on his bold answers in debates, Duterte’s stance on the West Philippine Sea was clear: it is ours to claim. But it seems the tide has shifted after five years into his term. Proof of contradictions in his own statements and actions show that he is more concerned with warming up and keeping good ties with China than advancing the Filipino people’s rights in their own waters.

While in more recent matters, the pandemic was an unprecedented event that took the Duterte

By Regina Noelle C. Arquiza and Rustom Louiegie P. Duran

administration by surprise. Instead of addressing the problem quickly, Duterte’s pandemic response was deemed one of the worst when ranked as 52nd in Bloomberg’s study that measured the resilience and response of economies to the pandemic. The administration was fumbling from one bad decision to another. From declaring the travel ban late, to prioritizing the rehabilitation of the Manila Bay, to the anomalies in the pandemic budget, threatening his own citizens with his “shoot them dead” statement if people were to violate health protocols, and to the increasing debt of the country, it was a tumultuous time faced by the masses.

Legacy: The good in the past six years

Though there were controversies along the way, Duterte was still able to contribute good things and serve his country in the best way he thought was possible. To highlight, he provided quality education, numerous infrastructures and most of all, peace.

During his administration, over 1.6 Million students were aided with free education, after he signed Republic Act 10931, which was filed by Senator Ralph Recto and principally sponsored by Senator Bam Aquino, into law in 2017. This establishes student loan programs and tertiary education subsidies to promote quality education

by ensuring free tuition in state universities and colleges, local universities and colleges, and staterun technical-vocational institutions.

Taking off from the Aquino administration, infrastructure spending was at an all-time high with 1.12 Trillion pesos and materialized through roads, airports, and railway projects all over the country. Out of the 119 targeted projects, nine bigticketed projects were completed.

It is also in Duterte’s administration that the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) was signed. BOL was the law that culminated in the peace deal signed by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the past administrations. This law replaces the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) with the new Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), which allows the more fiscal autonomy, regional government, parliament, and justice system. ***

The Filipino people continue to swoon over strongly suggestive words and promises. Oftentimes, they are blind-sided by the easy way out, even clinging to empty oaths and impossible vows. After six long years, Duterte’s administration is a prime example of how people should not fall for empty words and instead, demand for action and accountability. C

Jr.

By Levina Eunice O. Palarca and Hyacinth L. Premacio

On June 18, TheCrusader Publication reconvened the 10th edition of SIBYA: The Northern Mindanao Student Communicators Congress at the XU Little Theater. This year’s edition is the congress’ first reinstallment after being canceled last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Kevin Matthew N. Pacana

Beginning of a comeback

SIBYA is an annual student-run, non-profit communication congress that invites audiences from Northern Mindanao through invitations and independent promotions. Themed “Defending Democracy from Disinformation,” the congress tackled one of the most pervasive issues of the last decade—the severity of disinformation and its impacts to our democratic society. Dabbling on the recent misinformation and disinformation debacle during the campaign elections and the results that followed suit, the congress also brings to light the role of media and information on the plight of our democracy.

Over 300 virtual and on-site audiences across different universities witnessed the live discussion with the guest speakers composed of Rappler Journalist Rambo Talabong, CNN Philippines Chief Correspondent Pia Hontiveros, and AirAsia Philippines Spokesperson and former GMA News Anchor Steve Dailisan. The congress aimed to raise interest in journalism and communication, provide a forum for intellectual debate, and present current communication trends and issues.

Truth talks

Each guest speaker had their own unique stories of their journalism careers, imparting a variety of perspectives on the theme. Talabong shared a personal narrative on the disinformation pandemic, likening disinformation and misinformation to a virus which he characterized

as hard to diagnose, quick to spread, and has multiple variants. With storm clouds in the horizon, he urged the audience to continue telling the truth, saying “let’s fight together” against the virus threatening to swallow the country whole.

On the second talk, Hontiveros exemplified the highs and lows of journalistic work through her experiences in the field with a special focus on her life-changing coverage of a battle-stricken territory in Camarines Sur. The audience also received a special treat in the form of a short journalism 101 by one of the most experienced journalists in the field. She concluded that readiness, credibility, and experience are requisites for one to defend democracy against disinformation. Lastly, Dailisan talked about his journey as a journalist-turnedpilot which led him to experience how brands could easily become victims of false information too.

Contest Winners

Following the talks, an open forum took place that brought up discourse on relevant topics especially in giving vloggers access to Malacañang press coverages, media biases, and fake news. The congress ended with the awarding ceremony for the Essay writing and Photojournalism categories led by TheCrusader Publication Editor-in-Chief Melvin Villacote.

The Essay Writing contest winners are the following: Princess Dezza Dalog of Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-

IIT), Glenn Ruel Maujon of MSU-IIT, and Florence Ronn Cabrido of The University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP) won first, second, and third place respectively for the college level. For the high school category, John Sebastian Cabasagan of XU - Senior High School (XUSHS), Save Vrealffa Acain of Fatima College of Camiguin, Inc., and Chrislyn Bacalso of Misamis Oriental General Comprehensive High School (MOGCHS) placed first, second, and third respectively.

For the college level Photography contest, Ivy Marie Mangadlao of MSU - Main Campus bagged first place, Raheemah Hafsah Pangarungan of MSU - Main Campus, second place, and Julie Ann Kee, third place. For the high school category of the Photography contest, Mohammad Ali Pangarungan of MSU Institute of Science Education Science High School won first place, Achilles Aramao of Liceo de Cagayan University, second place, and lastly, Christine Heart Embate of MOGCHS bagged third place. ***

In an era muddled with lies and the truth becoming harder to find and even more so to defend, the speakers urged the participants to keep the fight going no matter what the future may hold. As Hontiveros emphasized, “Journalism will remain.” C

Photos by Jivi Roy D. Rizaldo, Paula Elaine D. Francisco, Catherine C. Naldoza, Kenneth Jhon D. Sanchez

The sudden appearance of the monkeypox has certainly caught everyone off guard. Since May, the world has seen over 16,000 confirmed cases of this virus. With the Philippines having reported its first case on July 29, the worry of another outbreak causing havoc in the country now grows. Yet again, we face a future that holds a concern of uncertainty.

WHAT IS MONKEYPOX?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), monkeypox is a rare disease that is caused by the infection of the monkeypox virus. It is a transmissible disease and its spread relies on prolonged, direct, skin-to-skin contact, as well as through respiratory droplets. There are two main types of monkeypox—the West African type and the Congo Basin type The current outbreak of monkeypox is caused by the former. The CDC clarifies that the West African type of monkeypox is less severe than the strain of the Congo Basin type.

WHAT TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE?

There is no existing treatment specifically for the monkeypox virus. However, since monkeypox and smallpox are genetically similar, treatments used for smallpox can also be used for monkeypox. Antiviral drugs and vaccines that are developed for smallpox may be used to prevent and treat the monkeypox infection. Antivirals like tecovirimat (TPOXX) are usually prescribed to people who are likely to get severely ill with the virus.

IS IT A CONCERN?

Infections with the West African type monkeypox are rarely fatal and over 99% of people who get this form of the disease are likely to survive. Monkeypox is usually a self-limited disease, which means it resolves on its own without needing treatment. That said, children under the age of 8, people with a history of eczema, people who are pregnant, and immunocompromised people are all likely to get seriously ill and even die from this virus.

WHAT PREVENTIVE MEASURES CAN WE TAKE?

Get

Headache

Swollen lymph nodes Muscle

Avoid skin-toskin contact with people who have a rash vaccinated with existing vaccines such as JYNNEOS and ACAM2000

Practice proper hygeine

By Alyssa Chantal P. Moreno

The satirical movie, ‘Don’t Look Up’, written by Director Adam McKay and featuring Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence won the 2021 American Film Institute Award (AFI) Movies of the Year. The plot centered on two astronomers who were desperate to warn mankind of the approaching comet that would soon destroy Earth. With six months to convince the people, they go on a venture to disseminate the truth to the media about mass extinction.

According to McKay, the title of the film is a metaphor to the reaction of the people nowadays towards issues of climate change. The public, the scientists, and the policy-makers ‘don’t look up’ to the realities of the upcoming and current problems faced by Earth. He mentioned how ignorance in society leads to danger. Their narrative was just another story being brushed aside instead of being taken seriously. Now, these events are happening in real life.

Let the Earth breath

On April 6, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Climate Scientist Peter Kalmus alongside three scientists—physicist Greg Spooner, Engineer Eric Gill, and science educator Allan Chornak—were arrested in Los Angeles for protesting by chaining themselves to the doors of the JPMorgan Chase building. They indicated that the planet only has three to five years left. This protest was organized by the Scientist Rebellion, a group of scientists calling for a climate revolution.

According to an American online media company INSIDER, Chase Bank is the worst fossil fuel bank in the world, with JPMorgan Chase financing this by spending approximately $317B on fossil fuels from 2016 to 2020. Protestors called out the company to divest from coal, oil, and gas due to its alarming contributions to climate change. They posted a paper on the wall stating that the government intends to produce more than twice the amount of fossil fuels in 2030 than to be

“consistent with limiting warming to 1.5C.” These scientists wore lab coats that had the Extinction Rebellion (XR) logo, which displayed a symbol of a circled hourglass representing a warning that time is running out for many species.

Kalmus emotionally stated, “We’ve been trying to warn you for so many decades.” He captured the attention of millions of people witnessing his protest streamed live on Facebook. “I’m here because scientists are not being listened to. This is so much bigger than any of us,” he reiterated. These scientists have taken the risk for Earth which they call “the gorgeous planet.”

Ways to help Earth

Since the movement, #LetTheEarthBreathe has been trending all over social media. People have been advocating about deleting unwanted emails and changing browsers to help the planet breathe. According to Lumina Homes, energy is needed to process emails which are then archived for future reference in various servers throughout the globe. These servers are housed in large data centers that utilize huge quantities of power derived still from fossil fuels. This contributes to global carbon dioxide emissions, which is why people have been encouraging others to delete unnecessary emails consistently.

Premier pop culture channel POP INQUIRER mentions that though it is a good thing to do, “The simple answer and what other users have been telling others is no. Those things aren’t enough to save the Earth.” Small actions do not have much of an effect if these corporations and private companies continue to do harmful damage. It is corporate greed that is to be addressed and they must be held accountable.

Small actions such as saving electricity, planting trees, conserving water, recycling, etc. are still contributing to the betterment of Earth. However, if big corporations do nothing to change their actions and see the bigger picture, none of the little impactful things will matter.

***

“We need a billion climate activists. I encourage everyone to consider where we’re heading as a species, and to engage in civil disobedience and other actions. The time is now. We’ve waited far too long. Mobilize, mobilize, and mobilize. Mobilize before we lose everything,” Kalmus advocates.

The Scientist Rebellion has already been sounding the alarm of climate change, and we must look up to the realities of this problem. It must not be ignored nor be seen as another story that will be forgotten. Kalmus tells us to do our part as citizens—to be climate activists by utilizing our voices to demand action. If we truly wish to let the Earth breathe, then we must engage in activism with the public.C

I’m here because scientists are not being listened to. This is so much bigger than any of us.

Peter

Kalmus Climate Scientist at National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

Design by Kevin Matthew N. Pacana and Chloe Alexandra

SHAUN

Holabels, may panibagong reading na naman si akezkez para sa ating mga Xaverian Huskies! Okay pa ba ang nanats all? Ug dili, kebs lang pud, everybody has their bad days. Forgive yourselves for your lapses dahil kung ang Diyos nga kayang magpatawad, puwes hindi ako Diyos! For today’s reading, take what resonates, leave what doesn’t emz!

Aquarius (Arctic Monkey fan na gatekeeper) Unsa’y perti nimo’g pamalit ug wow nga sanina oi nga required man mag uniform ang mga Xaverian Huskies? Ako pa nimo gibayad nalang nako na’s akong mga utang!

Lucky Charm: Iphone 13

Aries (Alpha personality nga sigeg hisgot ug crypto ug nft) Murag sa wala’y pag-duha duha magka love life jud ka karung f2f, ‘yan ay kung wala ka’y problema mahimong kabet.

Lucky Charm: Laughing Buddha nga naghilak

Cancer (Zack Tabudlo/Phum Viphurit fan nga discord admin) Biktima ng study first, sasalubungin ng I’ll love you at your worst.

Lucky Charm: Karma sa imong ex

Capricorn (Astrology Girl/Boy nga taga Xavier Heights) Ang theme sa inyong GA karung f2f kay “jejemon”, tapos I can sense gyud my brothers and sisters in Christ nga murag sa imo mang-ulos ug sanina ang imong mga classmates.

Lucky Charm: Bato sa I wanna be a tutubi

Gemini (Misogynist ga mahadlok sa mama ) Dili ni hula-hula lang kay murag kinahanglan na gyud nimog f2f kay ana ka gub-on nalang ang Bulkang Mayon para muundang na ug buto.

Lucky Charm: Goodmorning Towel (Dapat siningtan na!)

Leo (Mysterious person Macabalan ) This will be your year, your year para mahibal-an kung kinsa man gyud ang gasab-it anang imong mga pangandoy nga kinahanglan paman na abuton, hasol ba!

ED

Lucky Charm: Wealth Ship (kinawat)

Libra (Valorant e-girl/boy) Di daw mahilig sa bata pero naay ginatawag ug baby? What is this behavior? Pero sige lang, gaka-kita na nako nga di mo magdugay… sa talking stage uy, kalma!

Lucky Charm: Fine China ni mama

Pisces (“Sa ganda mong yan wala ka pang insurance” Insurance seller) Finally, finally finallyyyyy! Pipiliin po tayo for today’s videow opo, pipiliing pang-Character development. Pak let’s go #IDE #BobThe Builder

Lucky Charm: Merienda ni Chito

Taurus (Ben & Ben fan nga masuko sa gainom ug latte) I can see it, money is coming your way, hala wait lang…. GABAHA! Gabaha ang mga bayrunon!

Lucky Charm: Fortune Cat (naka gwiyomi)

Virgo (“Born in the wrong generation” nga tambay sa TikTok) Wala sa gipa-overthink tika pero what if ang imong sun and moon ga good morning ug goodnight na sa iyang katapad karung f2f.

Lucky Charm: Lucky Bamboo sa inyong silingan

Sagittarius (“Wala ma’y mabag-o maski pag kinsa madaog” Cycling enthusiast)

Single ka? Palit ug coke kaw. Dili japon ka kauyab pero at least naa ka’y coke.

Lucky Charm: Feng Shui (naay pakapin maghilak kada gabii)

Scorpio (Slowed+reverb Cogon)

Kaning mga scorpio I can see gyud sa aking bolang kristal nga naay muabot sa ilang kinabuhi nga loyal, loyal sa ilang girl or boy bestfriends.

New XU Organizations slated for AY 22-23

By Ding Bat

n a Riddet post published on May 31, the University released a list of proposed organizations and clubs to be institutionalized alongside the renewal of face-to-face classes for the next AY. Under the subreddit, r/SibyerWhatsTheMater, the different organizations were announced via a poll, in an effort to promote discourse amongst the XU community. In a press briefing that occurred on the same day, Office of Student Awareness director Evanell Superbass divulged that this move was done so in the hopes of becoming more “meta.”

The University did not disclose what this means.

Furthermore, all prospective organizations and clubs were submitted by the different groups of the University’s student body. The list include the following: The Dance, Dance, Revolution Club, the Quirky Coffee Lovers Club, the Support Group sa mga Mahilig sa Talking Stage, the Samahan ng Valorant E-boys looking for The One, and the Guard May Baliw Dito - Political Debate Society.

In other news, the proposal for a Gay-Straight Alliance or LGBTQIA+ Club was immediately rescinded by school officials. During the press briefing, admin spokesperson Ruffa Mhie assured that this move was “not meant to be homophobic” and that “[they] love the gays.”

In response to the subsequent student dissatisfaction, the University has allowed for a Lana Del Rey Stan Club, albeit in a more secret capacity. “We can only meet through Zoom, and not while using our school emails or wifi,” hopeful Lana Del Rey Stan president Brook Lyn commented. On the other hand, the Slay the Gay Away Club is scheduled to meet every Wednesday of the week.

Additionally, a handful of other school clubs and organizations were put on hold for feasibility reasons. “We do not have an ice rink,” insisted Mhie in response to the uproarious demand for competitive figure skating during the Intramurals. “And no, the Breakfast Club will NOT be handing out free meals,” they reiterated.

To vote for these upcoming school clubs and organizations, or to submit your own proposals, visit r/SibyerWhatsTheMater or turn in your forms in-person at the Office of Would-be Orgs (OWO).C

XU to implement color-coded face masks next AY

By Potatossy

In accordance with the mandated Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) guidelines of the Department of Healthiness (DOH), XU will begin to require its faculty, staff and students to follow a set of color-coded face masks for AY 22 - 23. The Memorandum Of University Wellness Agreement (MOUWA) from the Commission on Higher Educationavility Discord (CHED) stated that the University is required to implement the color-coded face masks policy for the purpose of organization and minimization of cross contamination.

After comprehensive reviewing of the previous precautionary measures that the University has carried out in recent months, and despite requiring the usage of personal protective equipment (PPE), XU discerned that there are still loopholes in ensuring the safety of the community. “As per observation I have seen students asking for extra face masks during my site visitation,” affirmed by the Head of Health Policy and Systems Development (HPSD) Team Dr. John Sonn.

As we slowly transition into a blended learning modality, the University has decided to implement the color-coded facemasks based on the colleges and their departments: green for the College of Agriculture, red for the College of Arts and Sciences, gray for the College of Computer Studies, maroon for the College of Engineering, blue for the College of Nursing, yellow for the School of Business and Management, orange for the School of Education, violet for the School of Law and black for the School of Medicine.

The news attracted critical feedback from the public from both social media and the XU community. Claud Chase (BSEE 3) opposed, “Ngano mag color-coding paman sa face shield murag powerpuff girls rainbow lang ang peg.”

However, the University has viewed this policy implementation as an effective course of action to limit infection. Associate Executive Secretary Denna Lego expressed, “I believe that this will ensure a safer and conducive learning environment as this increases zone control. Nice pud ni kay organize [sic] na by color it would be much easier to identify students especially with the upcoming hybrid classes.”

XU’s improved precautionary measures will be fully implemented starting September 2022.C

XU to install air conditioners in all classrooms

By Quirkygirl

On July 1, University President Fr. Mars Beshy declared Memorandum 3435: Airconification of XU, which puts in gear the project of having air-conditioned classrooms in all of the buildings within the Main Campus, with its expected completion being by the start of AY 2022-2023 in August.

Listed among the concerns raised for the necessity of air conditioners (air-cons) were the following: cognitive and concentration levels decline significantly affecting students’ ability to learn and engage with new material, greater flexibility for teachers to schedule more mentally demanding lessons during the hottest parts of the day, and older adults are particularly more

vulnerable to health risks from excessive heat (hhaircon, 2013).

An anonymous post on Fesbok page Eksyu Confessions elaborated on how difficult it could be to transition from attending online classes in their respective air conditioned rooms to sitting in on lectures in a very hot and humid environment with often broken ceiling fans. This post garnered similar lamenting responses about how the heat would be a primary detriment to their learning. Gojo-sunbae commented, “Ayha ra jud ko makapasar kung bugnaw ang room.”

This project had already been proposed several times in administrative meetings. However, the circumstances then didn’t permit the long-sought go signal of the board. “There had been many conflicts,” shared University Treasurer Leen Tek,

“But now that the proposed tuition fee increase was approved, the budget for the upgrading of school facilities is now made possible.”

The admin settled on the TOSOT U-Crown Premium Series Inverter Split Type Aircon which retails for Php 75,995 and has the following features: Horse Power: 2 HP, Capacity: 18000, Power Supply: 220~240, Volt Frequency: 1/60 Ph/Hz, Power Input: 1530 W, Current Input: 4.9 A, and Airflow Volume: 850 m3/h. A total of 53 units were ordered from Luuh-zada.

Although it took a while, the longing for the school’s facilities to seem on par with other Ateneo schools will finally actualize. For the students especially, gone are the days of sweating profusely underneath sweaters and hoodies in the name of emanating the college student vibe.C

XU to launch in-campus food delivery app ‘Xavierians’ in AY 2022

By Rhaenyra

On July 5, the Office of Student Awareness (OSA) released a memo announcing the new feature in the Student Lifesaver Mishmash Ideal System (SLMIS)—an in-campus food delivery service called the ‘Xavierians’, exclusive only for XU students. It was noticed by University President Fr. Mamsh Tan that there is a need to feed hungry students to increase their drive and motivation in their incoming limited face-to-face classes.

This feature is aimed at cutting the long lines at the Magis Canteen and its concessionaires. “Finally, dili na jud ko kailangan mu-baklay gikan sa Engineering Building para mu-palit ug shawarma rice sa Magis,” said incoming senior student Pipay Keypie (ABIS 3).

According to OSA Director Evanell Superbass, “We want to give the students a treat that is only for them to eat. It is far different from PandaFood and DeliveryGrab.” Given that XU is a diverse community, there will be different cuisines present such as French, Filipino, Chinese, Indian, Italian, Greek, Spanish, and Mediterranean. If students are able to ace their major exams, each professor will give them a voucher worth Php 500. On holidays, students will only pay 50% of the delivery fee and on the President’s Day, all XU personnel and staff may order what they want for breakfast, lunch, and dinner as it will be paid by the XU President himself. Students may even

purchase frozen goods, but this is only available for Xavierian Days.

Current Cool Students Gang (CSG) President Selena Gomez mentioned, “I am most certain that students will be inspired in their studies with SLMIS’s new feature. CSG wishes to work with OSA as well to create Dessert Day every Wednesday where all types of sweets are readily available for the students and staff of XU.” This

includes candies, chocolates, gummies, cakes, lollipops, cupcakes, sours, chewing gum, and ice cream. In other words, every Wednesday, students should begin the day with something sweet on their rest day.

The Xavierians will be available on June 3, and it may also be downloaded on the app store where students must link it to their SLMIS accounts.C

Design by Sheil Ann Ashley

XU to require history as a major subject

By Toti Marie

tarting the next AY, history units will be a required major subject for all undergraduates in line with the University’s fight against disinformation and historical revisionism.

Formerly labeled as minor subjects, history units have been a part of both the Filipino and XU curriculum. The University has two history subjects that all undergraduates are required to take–Readings in Philippine History and The Life and Works of Rizal. Now, said subjects carry a heavier load as they will be computed twice its grade equivalent in the Quality Point Index (QPI).

XU Department of Historians (XUDOH) Chair Majo Ha said that requiring history as a

major subject could motivate students to take the course seriously, and hold it with high regard. “Disinformation and fake news has been very rampant in our country, especially during the elections. With this, we need competent students that know their history and stay true to it—and this starts at the school level,” Ha asserted.

However, the majority of the student body clamored against the initiative as it would add unnecessary “burden” to their already-loaded course schedules. “History is like tsismis. It is filtered and dagdag na rin, so, hindi natin alam what is [sic] the real history,” shared incoming third year student Ella Cross (BSED Eng 2). In college, the focus should be on subjects related to our field of work,” Cross added.

Additionally, students expressed their concerns regarding the subject’s tendency to

require lengthy essays and reflection papers. Graduating student Matir Yalgerl (BS Psych 4) says that it is this very tendency that makes students dislike the subject at times. “Yes, we have to understand the lesson, but the point is, need ba mag-essay?” She opines.

In response, Jo Ha assured the students that the department has designed a reasonable course outline that will not deter students’ course schedules. “Our history subjects are just supplementary to what students have grasped in grade school and high school history. Thus, our professors will make sure that requirements are not too heavy for the students,” he shares.

The requirement will be fully implemented starting Aug 2022.C

XU to employ “People’s Choice Award” in selection of class valedictorian and salutatorian

By Ello Fritzgerald

On June 20, Vice President for Higher Education Dr. Julieto Dagalan announced a new method for the selection of the class valedictorian and class salutatorian that likens that of the familiar “People’s Choice Award.” This is an effort to “spice up” the selection game and to ensure that the people delivering the valedictory and salutatory speeches are good looking enough.

Dr. Dagalan explained that the deliberation of the selection of class valedictorian and class salutatorian will solely be based on the number of heart reacts a photo of the graduates will garner, which is to be released on the official Facebook page of the University. He also added that they already have a preliminary list of graduates who will be included in the post for reacts. “The list includes the prettiest and most handsome graduates from the different departments,” he said.

Dr. Dagalan explained that this effort began when they started to notice that less attractive people were being chosen as class valedictorians and class salutatorians. In an elaborate statistical analysis recently released by the Department of Accurate Statistics for Beautiful Humans (DASBH), about 79% of class valedictorians have a Beauty Rate (BR) of 3. The BR is a tool that gauges how attractive a person is, ranging from 1 to 10, with 1 being the least attractive and 10 being the most attractive. Dr. Dagalan elaborated that this is a “very alarming” matter that suggests

that attractive people are less likely to be at the top. “We cannot afford to abandon the beauties of our University. We have to let the good-looking graduates take hold of the ceremony this time. I think it would also be a better sight for everyone to see,” he concluded. ***

Reacting of photos will run from July 15 to July 20, closing exactly at 11:59PM on the final

day. Students are encouraged to strictly only vote for the prettiest and most handsome candidates. Only heart reacts will be counted. The highest number of heart reacts will determine the class valedictorian, while the second highest number of heart reacts will determine the class salutatorian.

C

XU to install coffee fountains throughout the campus

Latin Honor Students receive cash prizes, courtesy of XU

By bhouszx_maqlit

The Office of Savings Administration (OSA) in partnership with the XU Department of Financial Affairs (XUDFA) created an initiative for all XU Latin Honor Students to be monetarily compensated according to their awards during this AY 2021-2022’s upcoming graduation on July 20-23. This new system aims to boost the morale of students in their studies and foster an environment for new learning and initiative.

By Toti Marie

On June 24, the University, through Memorandum 3N1+1 announced its plans to install coffee fountains in various areas within the main campus in partnership with the Department of Coffee and Croissants (DOCC) Region X.

An addition to the regular water fountains, coffee fountains will serve as an added amenity that fit the needs of the student body, specifically in terms of morale and energy. Said machines will be scattered in every building within the campus in order to be more accessible to the students. Users need only to bring their containers to retrieve coffee from the fountains, and they are also offered additional milk, caramel or chocolate drizzle, and their choice of sinkers such as pearls, coffee jelly, or crushed Oreos.

Office of Student Awareness (OSA) director Cara Mel Makyato said that the installation plan is in line with the University’s thrust in sustaining and protecting the welfare of the students. “We see the need not only to provide free and ready access to water but also to coffee,

as both are essential elements college students need to survive,” Makyato noted.

DOCC undersecretary Vani Lafreyp also said that the installation will encourage more schools and institutions to adapt to and provide for the ever-rising demand for coffee in the city. “Almost everyone in Cagayan de Oro is a coffee drinker. Everywhere you look, there is a new cafe popping up,” Lafreyp commented. He furthers by saying that the DOCC has enacted safeguards to make sure the coffee fountains were clean, well-made, and sustainable. “We have even partnered with local coffee brands in the region, so we are promoting our coffee farmers as well,” he ends.

The initiative was met enthusiastically by the student body. “Finally, finally, finally! Deserve jud kaayo ni sa students,” said Mat Chalatte (BS Bio 3). “It will serve as the daily caffeine boost that will push us to go to class,” Chalatte added. Incoming senior Amie Ricano (BSCE 3) also expressed her relief with this news, “Magamit najud akong metal straw set nga akong gipalit atong 2018.”

Installation will begin during the summer and is set to be fully operational by Aug 2022.C

The University decided on the initiative after evaluating student feedback on the e-learn platform, where students claimed that online classes are “very tedious” and that they “no longer have the motivation to perform well in class anymore.” In partnership with the Cruchever, an online survey was conducted to learn what problems are hindering these students and to decide on the ways the University can be of help to them.

Each laude has a corresponding reward— the higher the distinction, the bigger the benefit. Students whose cumulative QPI reaches 3.40 or higher but lower than 3.60 are set to receive P8,000 worth of face masks; students whose cumulative QPI reaches 3.60 or higher but lower than 3.80 will acquire a total of P10,000 with one box of Crispy Crema; while students whose QPI reaches 3.80 or above will collect P12,000 with a P500 gift certificate from Moonbaks. OSA Director Ivanell Superbass claimed that, as the pioneering batch of both the K-12 program and the online set-up, the students must be rewarded. “As the pioneers of the K-12 curriculum, it is only fair that they are compensated with up to 12,000 pesos too,” Superbass elaborated.

During this year’s Graduation Ceremony, all Latin Honor Students are asked to take a picture of themselves on stage as they are being awarded their respective medals as proof that they are eligible for the reward. Eligible students will then present the printed picture along with two valid XU IDs to OSA for claiming starting August 2529, one month after the 83rd Commencement Exercises. Inability to follow any of the above will forfeit their chances of claiming the reward.C

Design by Sheil Ann Ashley P. Bruas

Lampoon

XU Introduces New Sport

By Annabelle Lat

ith the University transitioning to face-to-face classes next AY, Xavier University Pro-athletics Office (XUPaO) is proud to announce a brand new sport for the 2022-2023 edition of the University Intramurals.

In an exclusive interview with XUPaO Sports Coordinator Krix Tiu the department’s ambitious plan to “be the first university to hold a mental gymnastics event” was disclosed. Tiu highlighted that students will now get to showcase their absolute mental brilliance. “We have envisioned this sport to be the marquee event of the Intramurals,” she disclosed. Tiu also added that implementing a new variety of sports would mold not only camaraderie among Xaverian athletes but also their self-discipline.

Mental Gymnastics requires mental gymnasts to be able to artfully perform the most difficult and complex thought processes and to be able to perform it flawlessly. The sport will train the athletes to be more versatile in executing their performance. The ultimate goal is simple, never arrive at the obvious conclusions whilst performing Rob Veen’s greatest hit “Wonderful Tonight.”

Participants are expected to inventively throw everyone’s mind off the loop for three rounds and in each round the participant with the lowest score will be eliminated. The overall score is calculated by adding the execution and difficulty scores together. The participant with the highest score wins.

A panel of six judges determines the execution score. They’ll each start at ten and subtract points for any flaws or mistakes in artistry, execution, or technique. Each judge will determine their own score. The top and bottom scores will be removed. The average of the remaining scores will be used to determine the athlete’s overall execution score. Every skill also has a value assigned to it based on its difficulty.

Tiu also plans to introduce other ground breaking sports such as underwater hockey and chess boxing. Tryouts will begin September of the next AY.C

Nutribunz now available in XU

By Yssa C. Crett

As XU students start to transition back to face-to-face classes, food stalls in the Magic Canteen also start to re-open. Among the old favorites, a new stall opens with the comeback food product of the year—the Nutribunz which comes in trendy flavors for students to enjoy.

The original Nutribun was known in the 1970s as an enhanced bread product made to combat child malnutrition. Now, the more boosted Nutribunz by the Department of Signs and Tellenology (DOST) has more nutrients and trendy flavors for students to enjoy. According to DOST Secretary Fortune la Pinya, the department continues to do more research on the Nutribun which was originally developed by the International States Agency of International Development (ISAID). “We believe adding more flavors will encourage students to eat this boringlooking bread,” he adds.

There is a wide range of Nutribunz flavors to choose from. The simpler flavors include sweet potato, cheese, Belgian chocolate, and tuna flavors. On the other hand, flavors on the higher tier include chicken adobo, beef shawarma, and

tiramisu. Lastly, the most sophisticated and most expensive flavors include wagyu beef and mutton tenders.

DOST partnered with the Department of Educationism (DepEd) to distribute Nutribunz for free in elementary and high school feeding programs, especially in places with high rates of malnutrition. Now, Nutribunz stalls will be placed in public and private schools across the country and will be sold at affordable prices starting at Php 5.

The simpler flavors will be available in all participating schools while the wagyu beef and mutton tenders will only be available in select stalls nationwide. XU was one of the institutions to avail of the special flavors that start from Php 100. Students can also add ramen, fruit salad, or milk tea for a more nutritious combo.

“I’m grateful for this opportunity that DOST gave us. Not only will students get to have additional snacks to enjoy on the campus, but they will also get to eat nutritiously,” shares University President Fr. Marz Tun. Soon enough, the Magic Canteen will be a sight of XU students eating nutritious buns.C

Photo by Jivi Roy D. Rizaldo Design by Sheil Ann Ashley P. Bruas

Editor’s Note

Inspired by the fearlessness of trolls and fakes, I, along with my daring colleagues, will finally release a better, bolder, and more credible lampoon magazine. In our newest issue, we bring you XU’s remarkable plans to spice up the students’ dull campus life. New academic honors, a food delivery app, and air-conditioned classrooms are among those that XU has recently introduced.

Although I am overjoyed with all of XU’s unique additions, I can’t help but be concerned about the current events now that a new president is taking the helm. Since the campaign period, I have witnessed how detestable and ignorant people can be. To Melinda, I will never forget how you bombarded my messenger box with TokTik videos glorifying your candidate who can’t even be bothered to attend a debate session. And to Maribel, a celebrity endorser belting out “Rawr” by Kati Pewy is not a compelling reason to vouch for a candidate.

But thank goodness that this election has brought out the worst in others. Finally, I can

RedTagged

remove unnecessary toxicity (out of sight, out of mind!) within my circle of friends. I just can’t believe some would go lengths into mocking and ridiculing others simply because of who they voted for. I mean, isn’t voting meant to help our country rather than fuel your stupid ego? I hope I’m wrong but based on my assessment, y’all are acting not normal.

It seems that elections have also been reduced to a contest of popularity. Solid track records and impressive platforms are no longer required because apparently fame is the trend nowadays. Some people are just so desperate for the country’s prosperity that they would rather choose an actor over a qualified lawyer. Who knew acting and politics could go so well? Perhaps with my esteemed reputation and stylishness, I can even run for a senatorial seat. Credentials and qualifications? Never heard of her.

For now, with a new president, I am thrilled about how we will usher into a thriving economy once more—I’ll finally get to experience the Golden Era of the Philippines!C

Cora Contrabida

in Chief, TheCruchever

DepEd plans out K-12+2, eyes two more years in basic ed curriculum

By Ding Bat

Plans to add two more years to the original K-12 curriculum are now in motion after the Department of Educationavility’s (DepEd) conference last June 29. In the conference, DepEd expressed that Vice President and Education Secretary Princess Sarah Duts’s plan of adding two more years for the mandatory military training for 18-year-olds will be enacted as soon as the following school year.

This plan stems from Duts’s ongoing crusade to push for mandatory military service even before being elected, it was in fact one of her significant platforms when she was still a candidate. After months of speculation, DepEd finally announced that they will continue on with Duts’s plan by

reforming the basic education curriculum into K-12+2.

The two years that will be added as explained by DepEd will be allotted for the students’ military training. Under the new curriculum, students will learn basic commands, facings, camping, and surviving days without Grabanda and TokTik. They will also be taught to survive under duress by letting them live in a world where fake news is valid, criminals lead the government, and fame defeats credibility and hard work.

Activities under the curriculum include escape rooms, paintball fights, basic self-defense lessons, how to hold firearms (both online and offline) and to throw it back (a bomb).

The department is hopeful that these additional two years will bring positive changes to the curriculum and the students’ educational backgrounds. “Aside from the academic skills that

we equip students, we must teach them important life skills as well,” as said by former DepEd secretary Maria Leonora Teresa Briones in the press conference.

Duts sees the additional two years as an advantage for the country. “This training ensures that the Filipino youth are strong and capable enough to protect the country, should we need it,” Duts expresses.

Meanwhile, students express their disappointment and disagreement with the plan saying that they already have too much on their plate and the additional two years would be more of a burden, than a help, to their education.C

Editor

Illustration by Jayson ELvie G. Ty Cover Design by Kiarra Dlahmane O. Lingating

NATIONAL